Cody Bradford threw his first start for Triple-A Round Rock on Sunday since making his Major League debut with the Texas Rangers against the Atlanta Braves.
In some ways, Bradford picked up right where he left off with the Express, who were hosting El Paso on Sunday. He claimed his sixth win of the season.
Bradford (6-1) threw 5 2/3 innings, and while he gave up four runs, only one was earned and his ERA actually dropped to 0.99. He allowed seven hits, struck out five and walked one. He did allow two home runs.
The Rangers called Bradford up on April 15 against Atlanta, as both a reward for a tremendous start at Round Rock and help for the rotation. The Rangers had just completed a 10-day, 10-game road trip, so his start allowed the normal starters an extra day of rest.
Bradford threw 90 pitches in five innings, giving up seven hits, six runs (all earned) and two walks. He struck out three and also gave up two home runs.
After his start, the Rangers send Bradford back to Round Rock and recalled reliever Joe Barlow.
Bradford was the Rangers organization’s Minor League Pitcher of the Month for April. He had a 5-1 record with a 0.91 ERA (four earned runs over 39 2/3 innings). He had a 0.86 WHIP and has a .156 opponent batting average. He walked 13 and struck out 37.
Before his call-up, Bradford led the Pacific Coast League in ERA, WHIP, opponent batting average, innings and wins (tied). He was also the PCL Pitcher of the Month.
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